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Our Astute founder

Liora Beer, Founder

In Loving Memory

Liora Beer was not only a talented fashion designer in New York City, a painter in Vermont, and a sculptor in South Boston, but also a pivotal force who reshaped her life to enrich others'. A passionate advocate for artists across all disciplines, her journey reflected her deep commitment to creativity and community.

Felicia Douglis, a close friend and Boston University classmate, remembers Liora: “Working alone in her studio was not enough for Liora; she was inherently a people person and driven to make a meaningful difference in the world.”

In 2009, Liora became the founding executive director of Artmorpheus Inc., which oversees the Fairmount Innovation Lab (FIL)—a vital program she founded in 2015. FIL continues to support underrepresented artists, creatives, and social entrepreneurs in the Boston area.

With over 20 years in the creative industries, community projects, and economic development—including arts, nonprofits, government, and academia—Liora's work left an indelible mark. At the City of Boston’s Office of Business Development, she launched the Business of Being an Artist initiative and coordinated business assistance across Greater Boston, profoundly impacting hundreds of entrepreneurs with her strategic guidance and resources.

A Fulbright scholar and a founding member of the Massachusetts Artists Leadership Coalition (MALC), Liora also maintained a vibrant visual arts practice for 16 years. Her co-founding of New Art Love, a MassChallenge Finalist social enterprise, further showcased her ability to bridge connections between art, audiences, and artists.

Liora was a visionary social entrepreneur, a cross-disciplinary strategist, and an unwavering community builder. As we continue to foster the creative sector she cherished, we honor her legacy, ensuring it not only endures but thrives.

Liora Beer Scholarship

Starting in July, the Liora Beer Scholarship will annually award two deserving individuals the opportunity to advance their educational pursuits. This scholarship is dedicated to supporting outstanding candidates by providing financial assistance and valuable resources to help them achieve their academic goals.

Empower Your Creative Vision

Apply for the Liora Beer Scholarship Today!
Elevate your artistic or social enterprise with the support and resources you need to thrive.
Apply now and let us help turn your dreams into reality!

The Artist Scholarship

Applicants for the Artist scholarship must be fine artists, visual artists, performance artists, or playwrights residing in Boston, Massachusetts. This scholarship aims to support local artists aspiring to become the foremost talents in Boston's vibrant arts scene.

The Creative Entrepreneur Scholarship

The Creative Entrepreneur scholarship is designed for entrepreneurs and small business operators in the creative sectors such as design, video production, marketing, and related fields. It also supports those involved in social enterprises or businesses that significantly impact the local community. This scholarship aims to elevate those underrepresented in Boston’s artistic community, particularly:

Individuals from neighborhoods along the Fairmount Cultural Corridor, such as Uphams Corner.
U.S. Armed Forces veterans, active duty members, or National Guard/reservists.
Entrepreneurs who will benefit from enhanced access to business support and resources.

We are committed to fostering diversity and providing the tools necessary for success to the scholarship recipients.

Scholarship Benefits

Recipients of the scholarship will receive comprehensive support and resources to enhance their creative and business endeavors, including:
Co-Working Space: Access to shared or on-demand co-working spaces for daily operations.
Event Space: Availability of event space for exhibitions, presentations, and read-throughs, as applicable.
Gallery Space: Inclusion in our revolving art gallery at FIL, if applicable, allowing for two events scheduled according to FIL’s calendar.
Technical Assistance: Ongoing technical support to aid in project development and execution.
Business Support: Resources and guidance tailored to enhance business operations and growth.
Networking Opportunities: Access to exclusive networking events and community-based meetings to connect with peers and industry leaders.